Workplace discrimination can affect anyone, regardless of how hard they have worked to get to where they are in their career. Discrimination can manifest itself in subtle and hidden ways, such as through biases in hiring or promotion practices, or more overt ways, such as harassment or unequal pay. Discrimination is treating someone differently because of one or more protected traits.
Suddenly, the place where you work and spend a significant portion of your day feels unwelcoming and hostile. This can adversely affect your overall well-being and work performance, leading you to underperform even when you have the skills and experience to advance in your career.
Decreased confidence and morale
You may feel your efforts are becoming futile, as though your hard work goes unnoticed because your employer or supervisor focuses on aspects unrelated to your job performance. Why bother trying when you will only receive biased or unfair treatment based on your identity instead of your work ethic? It can be incredibly demoralizing.
Increased mental health issues
Discriminatory practices can cause significant stress and anxiety. The anxiety and tension build up, affecting your concentration, decision-making and even your physical health. You might find yourself lying awake at night, replaying incidents in your mind, or struggling with feelings of isolation and frustration.
Decreased productivity in the office and increased absenteeism
Due to the emotional toll that discrimination can take, concentrating and being productive at work might be more challenging. Your capability to produce high-quality work hinges on a supportive environment. Your focus shifts from your job to self-preservation. You may become less willing to collaborate or seek help from colleagues, which can hinder your productivity.
Employees who feel discriminated against may need to take more time off due to the stress and discomfort it causes.
In an ideal world, your talents, hard work and dedication would be the only factors that influence your success in the workplace. Unfortunately, discrimination exists, and you may need to stand against it. If anyone in the office is treating you adversely, it should have nothing to do with who you are as an individual. You deserve to work in a professional environment where you can perform at your best.
